Assessment of the operational status of medical equipment in public hospitals of the Amhara region, Ethiopia: a sub-national study

Background: The functionality of medical equipment is critical for effective clinical service delivery. This study aimed to assess the operational status of medical equipment in public hospitals in the Amhara region, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 64 public hospitals between May and June 2024. Data on medical equipment functionality, installation status, and maintenance challenges were collected by trained biomedical technicians and technologists using a standardized format. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression to evaluate factors affecting functionality, including the availability of service manuals and training for end users and biomedical professionals. Results: A total of 6,946 medical equipment items were assessed, of which 5,232 (75.3%) were functional, while 1,070 (15.4%) were non-functional, 611 (8.8%) were non-installed, and 33 (0.5%) had incomplete accessories. The absence of a service manual reduced the likelihood of functionality by 55% (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.36–0.55, p<0.001). Similarly, lack of clinical user training reduced functionality by 64% (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.32–0.41, p<0.001). Additionally, the absence of BMET training increased the likelihood of non-functionality by 48% (AOR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.29–1.70, p<0.001). Conclusion: Although the overall functionality of medical equipment in public hospitals appears satisfactory, primary hospitals may overestimate functionality due to less exposure to complex equipment. Service manuals, clinical user training, and BMET training were key determinants of functionality. Strengthening training programs and ensuring the availability of service manuals could improve equipment performance.